Carnival Corporation Boosts AIDA Fleet with €2 Billion Order from Fincantieri

Carnival Corporation has announced its first ship order for AIDA Cruises, placing a €2 billion order with the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. This move reflects the corporation’s strategy to diversify investments in non-American brands after previously focusing primarily on Carnival Cruise Line.

CEO Josh Weinstein shared insights on April 6 regarding the company’s renewed focus on brand-specific fleet expansions, aimed at meeting regional market demands. Notably, Carnival experienced a remarkable fiscal recovery, showcasing a 40% increase in EBITDA to $6.1 billion for FY 2024, along with significant first-quarter revenue growth to $5.8 billion.

Following its long-term fleet strategy, Carnival previously committed to adding approximately one new ship each year across its various brands. Earlier in 2024, seven ships were ordered for Carnival Cruise Line, scheduled for delivery from 2027 to 2033, built by both Meyer Werft in Germany and Fincantieri in Italy. Additionally, a legacy order for a Princess Cruises ship, Star Princess, is expected for delivery in 2025.

The new ships for AIDA will be mid-sized, positioned between the Helios Class and Hyperion Class. Each vessel is expected to house around 2,100 passenger cabins, with deliveries anticipated in early 2030 and late 2031. These ships will also incorporate multi-fuel propulsion systems capable of utilizing liquefied natural gas (LNG) and other sustainable fuels.

AIDA is recognized within Carnival for its environmental innovations, being the first to introduce an LNG-capable cruise vessel with AIDANova in 2018. This new order marks AIDA’s first collaboration with Fincantieri, as it has primarily sourced ships from Meyer Werft, alongside two vessels built in Japan by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

Following this announcement, AIDA is also undergoing a modernization program for its existing fleet, beginning with enhancements to the 2007-built AIDAdiva. Upgrades focus on technological improvements and modernizing public spaces, with new dining concepts introduced.

As a key player in Carnival Corporation’s portfolio, AIDA continues to target the growing German-speaking cruise market while aiming to expand its fleet to a total of 13 ships with these additions.


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